Kings Dominion is the perfect place for family fun. I have to admit that I was a bit surprised with how accommodating and entertaining Kings Dominion could be for guests of all ages. My family moved to Southern Maryland when I was a teenager; so I went on fieldtrips and summer visits to Kings Dominion frequently. I remember when the Volcaono was the latest and greatest roller coaster. To be honest, my memories of the park were that of thrilling roller coasters and wasn’t sure how kid friendly it would be. Your amusement perspective definitely alters when you’re entertaining toddlers and young children. I was glad I had the chance to visit King’s Dominion with my kids a few times this summer because a lot has changed since I had last been in over ten years. I hope that this article helps families in preparing for an amusing day at King’s Dominion.

RIDES FOR LITTLE’S

The first thing that you want to do when you arrive to the park is have your child’s height checked. This way you can get a wrist band to save time and frustration for what rides they can and can’t go on. My oldest son who’s four is 42” and my youngest son who’s almost three is 36″ tall. It seems that 36” is the magic number because he was able to go on many rides designed for toddler 36″ and taller.

One thing that wasn’t around back in my day is the recently renovated and expanded Planet Snoopy which is designed especially for younger kids. You could easily spend an entire day in this one section because there is just so much to do! From entertaining shows to fun family rides and thrilling kiddie rides to kid friendly food; you will find everything you need in this section. I love that there are classic rides like bumper cars and unique rides like Snoopy’s Rocket Express. For a full list of rides and height restrictions visit Kids Rides Link.

Our favorites that even little man could ride independently were: The Kite Eating Tree, Lucy’s Cabbies, Peanut Turnpike, Snoopy vs. Red Baron, Snoopy Junction, Peanut’s Road Rally and Snoopy’s Space Buggies. Some my oldest got to ride alone were: Great Wind Up, Peanut 500 and Joe Cool Driving School. Since I was flying solo with two kids I was happy that my four year old at 42″could ride without a chaperone and my youngest with a chaperone so we could go together on: Lucy’s Tugboat, Sally’s Sea Plane, Snoopy’s Rocket Express and Wood Stock Whirly Bird.

RIDES FOR FAMILIES

Don’t worry there are a plethora of rides beyond Planet Snoopy, especially rides that are great for families. Our favorites are the Blue Ridge Tollway, Eiffel Tower and Shenandoah Lumber Company. For a list of family rides and height restrictions click on the following link Kids Rides Link.

TWO PARKS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

One great place to hang out during the hot and humid summers is Soak City! The water park is open Memorial Day through Labor Day and is FREE with regular park admission! When it comes to younger kids you will want to check out Soak City’s two huge water play areas. Our group found Lil’ Barefoot Beach Soak City Splash House to be perfect for infants, toddlers and preschoolers! Two other really fun places for family to hang out is at the wave pool and lazy river.

Two things I learned from my visit right away were: you don’t need to bring your own life vest or flotation devices. The park provides a plethora of life vests in a variety of sizes. The second thing I learned was to have your children wear water shoes. Soak City is a large area with a quite a bit of walking distance between attractions and the ground gets very hot!

THERE’S A THIRD SECTION!

In the very back of the park, there is a fun walk through exhibit called Dinosaurs Alive. Dinosaurs Alive didn’t exist when I was a kid. I think this part of the park sometimes gets forgotten about. But it’s definitely a great attraction to visit when at Kings Dominion. This section is free for season pass holders and only $5 for day pass holders.

FAMILY DINING

Amusement park food is something my kids love! The parks different venders offer all the kids favorites: chicken tenders, hotdogs and pizza. If you have four or more people in your group I recommend getting a whole pizza for $30 you can feed 5-6 people. They didn’t have chain restaurants available in the park back in the day but now you can enjoy Chick-Fil-A (not open on Sundays), Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, and my kids all-time favorite Sweet Frog right in the park!

PLAYFUL PARENT TIPS AND TRICKS

First and for most…saving money on tickets is a big deal! Keep in mind that guests under the age of three are free! If you catch the deal at the beginning of the year the best way to save money is to get your littles the pre-k pass which allows kids ages five and under a free season pass! For discounted tickets its best to purchase them in advanced; check with your local parks and recreation or if you are military purchase your tickets on base. Also, be on the look out for specials through the park. Just last week they had a flash 50% off sale!

Take advantage of the family accommodations. Grab a parent swap pass if you have young children. Kings Dominion offers a service where the parent of a small child waits in line and both can ride! To obtain a Parent Swap Pass, visit Guest Services located at the Front Gate upon arrival at the park.

I love that Kings Dominion has a special program called KidTrack to help if little ones should get separated from their parents. Check with guests services for accommodations and read the parks guide lines, accommodations and suggestions for visiting the park comfortably with a special needs child. Special Needs Accommodation Link

Kings Dominion has families best interest at heart. There is an air-conditioned family care center located in Planet Snoopy where you can take a break, change diapers and even nurse your baby. You will find everything you need; rocking chairs for comfortable nursing, a microwave for warming bottles, family style bathrooms and toys for entertaining.

One thing that I have learned is that your stroller is more than just a device for transporting your little one. It is your locker on wheels! It’s where you keep your baby bag, change of clothes, towels for the water park and even where you keep your food and beverage. While you can’t bring outside food or beverage. Water bottles are perfectly acceptable! Secure a mommy hock to provide room for your water bottles. Save money on beverages, bring your own water bottle and ask to have it filled. Filtered ice water is free and the perfect way to stay hydrated on a hot day. You can also purchase a refillable cup if you will be visiting the park more than once.

Make the most of your stroller aka portable locker. I bought a bike lock and secured my stroller and bag to a pole in the water park instead of purchasing a locker.

When I prepare for a summer day trip to Kings Dominion I usually dress my children in their bathing suits. Their rash guards provide them with extra protection from the sun and they are ready for soak city. I pack towels and a change of clothing for when we are done and ready for dry rides.

Consider using a water proof phone case that you can store your phone and money in that way you don’t have to worry about your personals and can focus on your family. I wasn’t able to find one of the phone case that go around your neck so I got a small fanny pack with enough room for my phone and a credit card. I got it from the sports section at Walmart for $9.

Take a time out by stopping to see a show. We really enjoyed A Cirque Experience, featuring an incredible showcase of strength, balance and athleticism. It’s in-doors so you can cool off in the AC.

Download the mobile app so that you have a easy to use map, information about show times and park updates; not to mention get notifications on discounts.

***I want to thank Kings Dominion for inviting The Playful Parent for a fun day at the park. The Playful Parent is not paid to write articles. All pictures and information presented are my own unbiased opinion. It is an honor to share tips and suggestions to help make vacationing fun and easy for families. For more information on travel and guides for other attractions check out The Playful Parents Travel Section: https://theplayfulparent.org/traveling/***

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The Playful Parent

The Playful Parent was created in 2016 as a blog to share the joys and craziness of parenting. The founder of The Playful Parent is a full time domestic energizer and has a Bachelors from Marymount University and a Masters in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.

I’m from California so when I think of theme parks it’s Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Sea World, Marine World and Great America. It’s so darn fabulous to learn about other gorgeous theme parks around the country. One day I would love to visit Maryland and spend a day at the incredible Kings Dominion!

Little JumpersDate : Most M/W/F (Always check Pump It Up site first)Time : 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMLocation: Pump It Up WaldorfDetails : This special open jump is for our guests aged 1-6 years old only. If you’re worried about older kids running around the smaller ones, this is the perfect time for your little jumpers. Our designated toddler area is for 1yrs-3yrs only. 2 yrs-6yrs are allowed to jump on the inflatables. Daycares are more than welcome to participate in Little Jumpers. We ask that if you are going to bring more than 5 participants that you call ahead to let us know.Cost: $5.00 per childInformation: https://www.pumpitupparty.com/waldorf-md/calendar/

***ALWAYS CHECK THE SCHEDULE OR CALL FIRST TO MAKE SURE LITTLE JUMPERS IS STILL ON THE CALENDAR. ***

Date: Monday – ThursdayTime: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PMLocation: Family Place to Play, Waldorf, MDDetails: Family Place to Play Fun Center is a large indoor playground that can accommodate private parties and also is a great place to bring kids to play. Open Play provides many different ways for kids to be stimulated both physically and mentally.Event Type: Free PlayAge Group: All AgesCost: $11 (2 Hours)/ 2 and under $6.60Registration: Drop- In Welcomehttps://familyplacetoplay.com/ways-to-play/

BUSCH GARDENS CHRISTMAS TOWNDate: November 17, 2018 -January 5, 2019 (WEEKENDS ONLY UNTIL DEC 9)Place: Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VAPrice: Cost of Admission to park/ FREE to Season Pass HoldersInformation: Christmas shines brightest at Busch Gardens Christmas Town in Williamsburg, Virginia. The world’s most beautiful theme park is aglow with over 8 million Christmas lights, making it the largest Christmas light display in North America. Enjoy kid-friendly, thrill rides, merry entertainment and dining options. Stay warm with a mug of the park’s signature peppermint fudge hot chocolate, meet Santa Claus in the North Pole and capture an unforgettable memory with a Christmas photo. Most of all, enjoy this most wonderful time of year with friends and family. CHRISTMAS TOWN PLAYFUL PARENT GUIDE

41TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT THE MORMON TEMPLEDate: November 29, 2018 – January 1, 2019Place: Washington, D.C., Temple, 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MarylandPrice: FreeInformation: The Festival of Lights is one of the D.C. area’s great community traditions. Beginning December 1st, the Festival features free performances nightly in the comfortable, state-of-the-art theater located in the Visitors’ Center. A different performing artist or group is showcased each night, including bell ensembles, choirs, orchestras, and more! Each performance is presented twice nightly.

ZOO LIGHTSDate: November 23, 2018 to January 1 (except Dec. 24, 25 and 31) 5-9 PMPlace: Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington DCPrice: Free admissionInformation: Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights a part of their annual holiday tradition. A free event, ZooLights includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. More than 500,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland complete with a dazzling light show set to music!

WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT WATKINS REGIONAL PARKDate: November 23, 2018-January 1, 2019 (5-9:30 pm)Place: Watkins Regional Park, 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MarylandPrice: Tickets range from $5 per car or van to $30 per bus, see website for details.Information: Join in celebrating the 30th anniversary of Watkins Park’s Winter Festival of Lights by driving thru a spectacular holiday display of more than one million lights and one of the tallest tree displays in Maryland. Participants are encouraged to bring a canned or nonperishable good to be donated to a local food bank.

LIGHTS ON THE BAYDate: November 17, 2018 – January 1, 2019 (5pm – 10pm) *Including holidays*Place: Sandy Point State ParkPrice: $15 Per CarInformation: Head to Sandy Point State Park from November 19th to January 1st. Not only will you see Christmas lights, but 3D glasses are available to make your experience even more amazing.

BULL RUN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTSDate: November 21, 2018 -January 6, 2019 *Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas*Place: 7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121Price: $20-$25 Depending on what night you go.Information: Every year from Thanksgiving until just after New Year’s Day, you can experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus (holiday village open select nights). The festival happens annually at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia. Monday – Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday – Sunday and Holidays 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Holidays include November 23, December 24, 25, 31, and January 1).

SYMPHONY OF LIGHTSDate: November 22, 2018 -January 1, 2019 Wednesday thru Sunday (6 PM-10PM)Place: Symphony Woods at Merriweather Park, Columbia, MarylandPrice: Wed.-Fri. and Sun. $20, Sat. $25 (cash only)Information: The Symphony of Lights is a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition. This family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of more than 100 larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations, made up of more than 250,000 bulbs. Proceeds from the event benefit Howard County General Hospital. Lots of new elements this year to include: new course design, new displays, 100% LED lighting, laser show.

Details: Bring the family to Waldorf West’s Imaginative Playtime Room and enjoy a family-friendly, G-rated movie and some imaginative play. One ticket per person (including infants) will be handed out one hour before the program. Children under 8 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times

Details: Give your toddler a chef’s hat and an apron and watch the fun begin! We willcreate fun, edible food that will inspire your little one to look at food in anentirely new way. Be sure to bring your camera to share their creations beforethey are consumed.Age Group: 3-5Resident Fee: $12 • Non-Resident Fee: $14

ABOUT THE CREATOR OF THE PLAYFUL PARENT

The Playful Parent was created by Kristy a mother of two energetic boys. She has a Bachelors degree with a interest in Secondary Education and Masters in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. “I believe that children learn through play! I love to do fun things with my children and hope that sharing our adventures provides other families with inspiration and resources that lead to quality time together and a love for learning!” This non profit 501c3 organization was started so parents would have a family friendly place to come to, feel supported and leave with information that is useful. This site is kept advertisement and influence free in order to keep the site from clutter and bias opinion. Your support, feedback, likes and comments are essential; this site was designed to connect the community. The Playful Parent offers resources such as guides, calendars and ideas for making learning fun. In addition, TPP is present in the community and hosts a handful of events to support SOMD in raising healthy families.